`88 ranger need opinions

[Rust_Sucks]

Hey guys, I`m back in your forum again. This time I need advice on an `88 ranger I`m looking at as a daily driver, to replace the ex. I want to know what you think. I might be able to talk them down to 1K. It needs new shocks and minor brake work. I can do all labor myself. And yes it has a body lift. My main questions are about the reliablity of these old rangers and the 2.9L engines. I have personally inspected it and it seems good. Let me know what you think.

Thanks,
Jake

PS it can be ssen here: http://columbus.craigslist.org/cto/951654001.html

 

[410Fortune]

I think drive it for a bit and collect parts to drop a 4.0L OHV in place of that 2.9L
2.9L = eh
4.0L = Hell yes

88 was a GREAT year for the Ranger, last year of the good looking grill LOL

 

[Rust_Sucks]

I would love to later, but for now, I need to know about reliability, not power. Mostly about the engine, I know the trucks are reliable, they`re FORD. I do like the grill though.

 

[4x4junkie]

The 2.9L is dirt-reliable with one exception: any incident of overheating will more likely than not lead to a cracked head.
Drop a 2-core Explorer radiator in it and you should be fine.

Before you buy it (if you haven't already), look under the oil cap. Any whitish snot-looking crap under there is a dead-ringer for head problems.

A lot of people also report ticking noises on the 2.9s, although mine's quiet even after 160K miles (only "ticking" sound I hear is that of the fuel injectors, definitely not something like lifters). Even with it ticking, most say it'll continue running forever like a champ.

The thing I would worry about more is the A4LD trans if it's an auto.

Edit: N/M, I see it's a stick in the photo.

 

[stroked88ranger]

I have an 88 ranger xlt with 130some thousand miles. The ONLY thing ive ever HAD to replace on it was my ignition module. As far as having no balls with oversize tires, the 2.9L is a very reliable engine. If the truck is still posted id go for it. Here is a picture of mine and i LOVE it.


http://s12.photobucket.com/albums/a224/dbranger/